Lieutenant General Gurbirpal Singh Concludes 38 Years of Distinguished Military Service and Leadership

September 30, 2025 , Lieutenant General Gurbirpal Singh Concludes 38 Years of Distinguished Military Service and Leadership

On September 30, 2025, Lieutenant General Gurbirpal Singh, PVSM, AVSM, VSM, concluded his tenure as Director General of the National Cadet Corps (NCC), marking the end of a distinguished 38-year career in the military. Lt Gen Singh, who was commissioned into the 3 Parachute Regiment of the Indian Army on June 13, 1987, has had a career characterized by exemplary leadership and unwavering dedication to national service. The NCC expressed its profound appreciation for his inspiring leadership and extended best wishes for his future endeavors.

A Glorious Journey of Service and Leadership

Lt Gen Gurbirpal Singh assumed the role of the 34th Director General of the NCC on September 27, 2021. A graduate of the National Defence Academy (NDA), Khadakwasla, and the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun, he is also a product of the NCC. His educational background includes attending the Defence Services Staff College, Wellington, the Higher Command Course, Mhow, and the National Defence College, New Delhi.

Throughout his military service, Lt Gen Singh held numerous key positions and made notable contributions to national security and international peacekeeping. His roles included Company Commander during counter-insurgency operations in Nagaland and operations in the challenging Siachen Glacier. He further demonstrated his leadership by commanding a Special Forces Battalion in Kashmir Valley's counter-terrorism operations and serving with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon. His command extended to a Mountain Brigade and an Infantry Division along the Line of Control, highlighting his strategic expertise and operational effectiveness.

Lt Gen Virendra Vats Assumes Charge as 35th Director General of NCC

Distinguished Service Record

Lt Gen Singh's career is marked by a diverse array of impactful assignments. He served as General Staff Officer (Operations) in Sector Headquarters Rashtriya Rifles and had two tenures each within the Military Operations Directorate and Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff. His dedication to training future leaders was evident through his roles as an instructor at the Commando School and the Indian Military Training Team.

His career highlights include:

Leading Special Forces in critical counter-terrorism operations in Kashmir Valley

Commanding troops in counter-insurgency operations in Nagaland and Siachen

Serving in United Nations peacekeeping operations in Lebanon

Overseeing formations along the Line of Control

Playing a pivotal role in military operations planning and joint coordination

Lt Gen Gurbirpal Singh

New Leadership at NCC

With Lt Gen Singh's retirement, Lieutenant General Virendra Vats, YSM, SM, VSM, steps into the role of the new Director General of NCC. Bringing extensive operational experience and a commendable service record, Lt Gen Vats is anticipated to advance the NCC's goals in youth development and nation-building, continuing the legacy of his predecessor.

As Lt Gen Virendra Vats assumes leadership, the NCC remains committed to nurturing future leaders characterized by patriotism, discipline, and a commitment to serving the nation.